INVESTBANK, the leading bank in providing innovative financial solutions, with its managing partner, the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN), has recently helped the Community Based Organization, AL Kifah, in Ajloun to reaccredit the organic certification from ECOCERT.

The ECOCERT inspection has accredited 20 Hectares, including variety of crops. This significant certification is a testament to INVESTBANK’s continued commitment to increase sustain ability and responsible farming practices in the country, as well as local community empowerment.

Speaking about the certification, INVESTBANK CEO Muntaser Dawwas said, “For eight consecutive years, INVESTBANK and RSCN have worked diligently to alter the farming landscape in Ajloun by introducing the concept of organic farming to the local community. Our aim is to be part of a positive change towards conserving the environment, and contribute to a healthier soil, which results in growing healthier crops.”

This certification is part of a hugely successful five-phase project that was kicked off in 2011. The project has started with ten farmers, who were mentored by specialists on agricultural best practices, and were also supplied with the necessary materials and equipment needed to grow organic crops. Today the number of beneficiaries has increased to 1300 and the sales volume is increasing rapidly every year.

INVESTBANK has expanded the beneficiary base and signed with Um Al Yanabee Women Association, and will help them apply for the organic certification too.

After successfully completing several years and with an eye on creating a scalable business model, INVESTBANK inaugurated the Al-Shams Farmers’ Market as a marketing channel; selling fresh produce every Saturday in INVESTBANK’s Abdoun branch, as well as packaged items such as oil, honey, jam and much more, with delivery available on Mondays.(www.shamsfarmersmarket.com)